UNESCO has included the "social and cultural traditions" associated with the Ramadan Iftar, observing the sunset during the holy month, on its intangible heritage list.
The application for the sociocultural tradition was jointly submitted by Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Iran to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization on Wednesday.
The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which has been meeting in Botswana since Monday, included the Iftar among the intangible heritage of humanity.
"Iftar (also called Eftari or Iftor) is observed by Muslims at sunset in the month of Ramadan, upon completion of all religious and ceremonial rites," said UNESCO.
Iftar, which follows the sunset call to prayer during Ramadan, often consists of "gatherings or meals, strengthening family and community ties and promoting charity, solidarity and social exchange," it said.
The UN body noted that the knowledge and skills are typically transmitted within families through oral instruction, observation, and participation, and children and youth are often entrusted with preparing components of traditional meals.
During this process, parents also transmit knowledge about the benefits of fasting and the social values and functions of Iftar.
